Porcelain kōgō by Shōami Takano II and Japanese nerikō (incense balls)

In the art of Japanese incense, the kōgō is a small, precious box that preserves and enhances nerikō, refined incense pellets made from precious woods and spices.

Together, they embody a sensory tradition characterized by elegant gestures and subtle fragrances, which Atelier Ikiwa was keen to celebrate by offering a carefully curated selection of superb kōgō to collect, here signed by ceramicist Shōami Takano II and accompanied by a box of nerikō to introduce this little-known art.

The artisan

Shōami Takano II, born Shinjirō Takano, is a Japanese ceramicist born in Kyoto in 1941. Heir to a workshop founded in 1930 by his father, Shōami Takano I, he studied Japanese painting at the Kyoto City University of Fine Arts, where he completed his training in 1967. He then worked in the family workshop, which he officially took over in 1993.

Specializing in Kyoto porcelain (Kyō-yaki), he continues the traditions of sometsuke, shonzui, polychrome enamels (iro-e), and colored glazes kōchi. His artistic training has given him a particularly refined mastery of porcelain painting, especially in floral compositions and designs combining several techniques. His creations include objects for the tea ceremony, the practice of sencha, and the art of incense. The workshop is now being passed on to a third generation.

Technique and design

This Kyoto porcelain kōgō takes the form of a traditional Japanese racket (hagoita), used to play hanetsuki during New Year celebrations. A symbol of protection and good fortune, it evokes wishes for happiness and health in the coming year.

The lid combines a design of flowers painted in cobalt blue (sometsuke) with delicate polychrome enamels (iro-e). A turquoise, blue, and gold geometric border outlines the racket, while its handle is adorned in a deep blue punctuated by fine motifs. In the center, a molded-relief hanetsuki shuttle forms the lid's handle. Its golden head and brightly colored feathers, enhanced with gold lines, give this piece a sculptural presence full of refinement.

The combination of underglaze blue, colored enamels, and gilding illustrates the decorative virtuosity of Shōami Takano II, whose porcelain painting is one of his great specialties. The kōgō bears the ceramicist's mark at its base. It is available as a single piece.

Nerikō

To enjoy the kōgō as intended, a box of nerikō is also included. This box contains thirty-six nerikō pellets, each made from a delicately scented blend based on sandalwood, created by one of Kyoto's oldest incense houses. To use them, place two or three in the kōgō and leave the lid slightly ajar. To stop the fragrance from spreading, simply close the lid.

The nerikō pellets should be replaced when they become dry. It is important to keep unused nerikō in the hermetically sealed plastic bag so that they do not dry out.

To discover the art of Japanese kōgō and nerikō, we invite you to read the article we have written on the subject, available via this link. Other kōgō are available on the website; feel free to browse our selection.

Beyond their traditional use with nerikō, kōgō are also valuable decorative and collectible objects. The richness of this Japanese tradition, the diversity of forms and designs, and the expertise of renowned ceramicists and artisans make it an exciting collection to build over time. Collecting kōgō also means entering the world of great Japanese ceramicists through more intimate creations. Atelier Ikiwa offers a selection of kōgō carefully chosen for their artistic quality and uniqueness.

Practical information

Place of manufacture
Japan, Kyoto

Dimensions
Length 8.8 cm - Width 4 cm - Height 4 cm

Weight (with box)
130 g

Materials
Kyoto porcelain, cobalt blue design, polychrome enamels

Period
Heisei era (1989-2019)

Accessories

For the kōgō:
Paulownia wood protective box (tomobako) bearing the ceramicist's signature and seals.

For the nerikō:
Box containing thirty-six nerikō pellets.

The kōgō and nerikō will be presented together in elegant packaging, adorned with a textured paper band specially created by Atelier Ikiwa. An information sheet about the kōgō and the use of nerikō will accompany the set, ready to gift. An information sheet about the kōgō and the use of nerikō will accompany this set, making it a ready-to-gift, original, unique, and very elegant present.

Usage instructions

Place two or three nerikō pellets in the kōgō, leave the lid slightly ajar to release the fragrance or closed to stop it, replace the pellets when they become dry, and keep unused pellets in their airtight bag. Keep out of reach of children and animals. Do not ingest. Avoid prolonged contact with the skin. In case of discomfort or olfactory sensitivity, discontinue use. Store away from heat, moisture, and direct light.